WhatsApp Introduces Global Channels What’s New and Can Users Respond?

WhatsApp, the popular messaging platform under the Metta umbrella, introduced Channels in June 2023. Initially available in select countries, this feature has now been rolled out globally, including in Pakistan. With Channels, users worldwide can discover and follow channels containing updates related to their favorite teams, hobbies, personalities, and various other fields. Admins of these channels can share text, photos, videos, stickers, and polls with a wide audience.

New Feature: User Responses

WhatsApp is continually enhancing the Channels experience. According to WhatsApp Beta Info, the platform is working on a feature that allows users to respond to channel updates. While direct replies to updates might not be possible, users will have the option to express their reactions using a range of emojis. These emojis will enable users to convey appreciation, sadness, surprise, or humor, similar to how users interact with Facebook posts.

Testing Phase and Global Release

The response feature is currently in the testing phase and is available to select beta users. WhatsApp plans to release this feature worldwide in the near future. Additionally, WhatsApp has clarified on its support page that even individuals who do not follow a channel but view its updates will have the ability to send emojis as reactions, allowing them to engage with channel content.

As WhatsApp continues to evolve its features, the introduction of responses to channel updates enhances user interaction and engagement within the platform’s growing global community.

Stay tuned for more updates on WhatsApp’s latest features and functionalities.